The built environment is responsible for almost 40% of global carbon emissions, and therefore has a significant role to play in tackling climate change.

Sustainability needs to be embedded into every single building from the outset – from strategy, through to technical delivery and use.

To do this, the RIBA has launched the 2030 Climate Challenge which calls upon all RIBA Chartered Practices to reach net zero whole life carbon for new and retrofitted buildings by 2030. It sets out specific targets for operational energy, embodied carbon and potable water usage for the next ten years.

When sustainability sits at the very core of a building, it’s not only the environment that wins; clients and users also benefit in ways ranging from cheaper energy bills to improved health.